Jacobo "Jake"MHerrera

It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather, and friend, JACOBO "JAKE" M. HERRERA, age 82 of Las Cruces, on Wednesday, June 19, 2013 at his home surrounded by his loving family. "Jake", as he was fondly known to family and friends, was born June 15, 1931 in Carrizozo to George and Eliza Madrid Herrera. He was a star athlete in basketball and was a volunteer who helped put out the famous Smokey the Bear forest fire. He served his country honorably in the United States Army during the Korean War and received the Purple Heart. Jake retired as a locomotive engineer for civil service and during that time helped with the landing of the Space Shuttle Columbia. He was active member of the Roman Catholic Church. Those left to mourn his passing include his loving wife of fifty-nine years, Manuelita "Mela" Chavez Herrera of the family home; three daughters, Shirley Saiz and husband Tom of Killeen, TX, Rosanne Herrera of San Miguel, and Monica Valles and husband Joe of Las Cruces; two brothers, Ernie Herrera of Ruidoso and Floyd Herrera of Alamogordo; four sisters, Civilia Gutierrez, Emma Utter and Eliza Herrera, all of Las Cruces and Rosa Provencio of Tularosa. Other survivors include six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Jake was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers and one sister. Visitation for Mr. Herrera will begin at 6 PM Wednesday, June 26, 2013 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Shrine and Parish where the Prayer Vigil is scheduled for 7 PM. The Holy Mass of Resurrection will be held at 9:30 AM Thursday, June 27, 2013 in the same church with Reverend Vincent Peterson officiating. Military Honors will be accorded by the New Mexico National Guard Honor Guard and the Marine Corps League - El Perro Diablo Detachment. At his request cremation will follow and inurnment of cremains will take place at a later date. Serving as casket bearers will be Tom Saiz, Jr., Joseph Valles, Ray Chavez, Tom Saiz, Sr., Amanda Herrera, Claudia Avalos and Joe Valles. Honorary casket bearers will be Matthew Saiz, Adrian Avalos, Donald DeLage and Joseph DeLage. The Herrera Family has entrusted their loved one to the care of Baca's Funeral Chapels and Sunset Crematory, 300 E. Boutz Road, Las Cruces. 527-2222 Your exclusive providers for "Veterans and Family Memorial Care." For online condolences logon to www.bacasfuneralchapelslascruces.com

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